Day 2 and the light winds sniggling we were promised did not materialize. Instead we had force 3 – 4 climbing to a solid force 4 – 5. But what a day on the water it was. The 4 front runners going into the day all had kite issues at times as the boats fired down the short steep seas. The gybing points were easily identified after the first laps as the front runners chased down the guys who had piled it in. It was definitely a day of it is not over till the Fat Lady Sings.

The B14 Flying Circus arrived at Stokes bay to be greeted by grey seas and 30+ knot winds, peaking at 40 knots around 1300. With the predicted forecast for Friday and Sunday, some chose not to make the trip. What a day they were to miss.

After being held ashore under AP, the fleet was advised that they were going to sea at 1530.

The first few boats tentatively launched into 25 knots that was fast reducing to 20+knots with gusts from the SW. After 30 minutes, the start sequence started. With several boats opting to sit this one out, the protagonists lined up for a fast charge round the bay.

May 29th will see the B14 fleet descend on Stokes Bay SC for one of the most competitive National Championships in recent years. A quick review of entries suggests that there is a strong top group with a few others within the fleet capable of upsetting the order. Friday and Sunday look likely to produce big breeze. Schedule is for 9 50 minute races over 3 days with a maximum of 4 per day. So it could be a game of attrition.